Happenings at Skylark Opera Theatre December 2025

The Christmas Rose cast

The Christmas Rose is ready to BLOOM

Skylark’s cast, orchestra, and chorus are set to bring The Christmas Rose to life on December 19 and 21 at Sundin Hall, Hamline University. This charming one-hour Nativity opera by Frank Bridge is the perfect family outing to welcome Christmas week. Bergen Baker, Siena Forest, Brian Frutiger, Alex Ritchie, and Jeremiah Sanders—joined by full orchestra and chorus under Artistic Director James Barnett—retell the shepherds’ journey to Bethlehem, sparked by a radiant angelic chorus announcing the Christ Child’s birth. Two curious children, Miriam and Reuben, secretly follow along, hoping to glimpse the miracle themselves. Join us for this festive musical journey. For tickets, including special discount packages, click below.

Buy tickets here

The Christmas Rose in context---Skylark holiday operas and the true meaning of giving

A crutch, a magical glowing spider web, a watch chain--- Skylark's previous holiday operas tell of humble gifts that contain a wealth of meaning: that the worth of a gift resides in the heart of the giver. Embodying the same spirit, in The Christmas Rose the tears of a child with nothing to give the Christ Child bring forth a beautifully simple, miraculous gift. Written in English and with stories that captivate all ages, Skylark's holiday operas convey the warmth of the season through the power of musical storytelling.

Above, left to right: Amahl and the Night Visitors (2021, 2022), The Christmas Spider (2024); Below: The Gift of the Magi (2024) (Photos by Jeff Newcomer)

Thanks for your Give to the Max Day support

Deepest thanks to all who supported Skylark Opera Theatre on Give to the Max Day. The opera and music theater productions that audiences and critics have called "extraordinary", "tender and exquisite", and "moving and achingly authentic" are made possible by your generosity. Thank you for giving!

It's the Season of Generosity

If one of our performances—powered by extraordinary Minnesota talent—has brightened your days, we hope you’ll keep Skylark Opera Theatre in your year-end giving plans. Your support fuels the great things happening here, bringing opera and music theater to stages and senior communities across the Twin Cities. Skylark is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so your gift is not only deeply appreciated but also fully tax-deductible. Click below to donate.

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Skylark Event Calendar

December 19-21, 2025: The Christmas Rose in Sundin Music Hall in the Drew Fine Arts Center at Hamline University 1531 Hewitt Ave, St Paul, MN 55104
Friday, December 19th at 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 21st at 2:00 pm

All of us at Skylark Opera Theatre wish all of you a holiday season full of joy and music!

Megan Millett